Whether "bow" is pronounced with a long or short "o," it is fitting for the Oak Harbor High School cheer team as it earned a state-qualifying score in its first competition of the season at Gig Harbor High School Saturday, Jan. 12.

"For many female cheerleaders, the hair bow completes the uniform," coach Robin Gohn said. "For a competition squad, the hair bow can be a representation of pride and accomplishment. This week the Wildcat cheerleaders earned that 'special' state bow from their coaches by scoring a 192.5 to qualify for the WIAA State Cheerleading Championship."

The score was good for second in the division, only 4.5 points out of first.

The Wildcats were forced to re-choreograph their program with the loss of two injured teammates. The new routine was designed by assistant coach Lauren Albritton to highlight the team's strengths, Gohn said.

Oak Harbor performed well early, Gohn said, hitting on one of the most difficult stunts within the first 15 seconds.

Oak Harbor goes to Skyline High School Saturday, Jan. 19, for its next competition. State is Jan. 26 at the University of Washington